Haley Baylee Recalls SI Swimsuit Casting Win
The model discussed her path to becoming an inaugural Swim Search winner on the Zach Sang Show.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Swimming
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Haley Baylee reflected on her journey to the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit magazine during a recent appearance on the Zach Sang Show. She won the publication's inaugural Swim Search casting call in 2018 after submitting an Instagram video.
Why it matters
Baylee’s career trajectory highlights the power of social media to launch modeling opportunities through open casting processes. Her experience serves as a roadmap for aspiring models participating in future industry search events.
Haley Baylee has appeared in the magazine four times since her 2019 debut. She had approximately 500 Instagram followers at the time she submitted her entry for the inaugural 2018 casting call.
The players
Haley Baylee
She is a model who was recognized as a Forbes Top Creator in 2024, 2025, and 2026.
Zach Sang
He is a prominent radio host and podcaster who interviews celebrities and creators on his show.
Sports Illustrated
It is a long-standing sports media brand known for its annual Swimsuit issue and ongoing model casting events.
The details
After submitting a video to Instagram, Baylee received a direct message inviting her to New York for a live casting. Since winning, she has participated in shoots across locations including Scrub Island, Hollywood, and Loreto.
Timeline
2018: Haley Baylee won the inaugural Swim Search.
2019: Baylee made her first in-print appearance.
2020: Baylee participated in a shoot on Scrub Island.
October 21, 2026: Baylee appeared on the Zach Sang Show.
November 2026: Open casting call takes place in New York City.
Season Trajectory
The upcoming casting call in New York City continues the legacy of the inaugural Swim Search in 2018. This process shifts the competitive landscape by prioritizing social media reach over traditional agency representation for prospective models.
Aspiring models can look toward the November 2026 event for entry opportunities into the magazine. The process highlights that large-scale social media following is no longer a strict requirement for casting consideration.
The takeaway
Baylee’s path from a small social media presence to a multi-year model illustrates the evolving nature of casting in the digital age. Readers interested in similar opportunities should monitor the magazine's official social channels for real-time casting announcements.
Further reading
For more on the industry's latest competitive events, visit our Swimming section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Sports Illustrated Swimsuit.
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Do you believe open casting calls offer a fair chance to succeed in the modeling industry?
